Name: Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 20 oz pkg. refrigerated four cheese ravioli; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 2 Tbsp butter; 1 lb thin asparagus, woody ends trimmed and chopped into 2-inch pieces; 1 (10.5 oz) pkg. grape tomatoes, halved; 3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp); 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar; 2/3 cup Fisher Walnuts, chopped and toasted; 1/4 cup minced fresh basil; 1/4 cup minced fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese

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Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is an enchanting dish that brings a burst of flavors and colors to your dinner table. Imagine tender, cheesy ravioli embracing juicy, sweet cherry tomatoes and crisp asparagus, all tossed in a light, aromatic garlic and herb sauce. With each bite, the rich, creamy filling of the ravioli combined with the freshness of the produce creates a delightful symphony on your palate. This dish is not only pleasing to the eyes and the taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that will surely impress your friends and family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs recipe is a true winner for several reasons. First, it has easy preparation that requires minimal hands-on time, making it suitable for even beginner cooks. The combination of flavors is universally appealing, ensuring that it’s family-friendly and loved by both kids and adults alike. You can whip it up quickly, thanks to the convenience of refrigerated four-cheese ravioli, allowing you to present a deliciously hearty meal in under 30 minutes. Plus, this dish utilizes simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen, making it a perfect go-to for spontaneous dinner plans.

Ingredients for Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

20 oz pkg. refrigerated four cheese ravioli
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp butter
1 lb thin asparagus, woody ends trimmed and chopped into 2-inch pieces
1 (10.5 oz) pkg. grape tomatoes, halved
3 garlic cloves, minced (1 Tbsp)
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2/3 cup Fisher Walnuts, chopped and toasted
1/4 cup minced fresh basil
1/4 cup minced fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
1/3 cup shredded parmesan cheese

These ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and freshness, making it an enticing option for any meal.

Step-by-Step Directions for Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

Cook the Ravioli: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the refrigerated four-cheese ravioli according to package instructions, typically about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Asparagus: While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil and melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped asparagus and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes tender and vibrant in color.
Add Tomatoes and Garlic: Incorporate halved grape tomatoes and minced garlic (approximately 1 tablespoon) into the skillet. Sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance while the tomatoes soften slightly. Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar at this stage.
Combine Ingredients: In a large serving bowl, gently pour in the cooked ravioli. Add the sautéed asparagus mixture along with chopped and toasted walnuts, fresh basil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, then toss everything together to combine.
Finish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. This adds a rich, savory finish that complements the dish beautifully. Enjoy your warm, vibrant ravioli immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs, consider these chef’s secrets and optional extras:

Add a Protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. They work well with the flavors and can be sautéed alongside the vegetables.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for added depth. You could also incorporate red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Make it Creamy: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh asparagus instead of frozen for a crunchier texture, and use organic tomatoes for a more vibrant flavor.
Presentation: Serve your dish in a large bowl family-style, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a polished look.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

To enhance your dining experience, consider pairing your Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs with a mixed green salad dressed lightly in balsamic vinaigrette. This addition can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich flavors of the main dish. A crusty loaf of Italian bread is also a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the remaining sauce on your plate. For beverages, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with fresh lemon slices would complement the meal beautifully.

Nutritional Information

While this Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs dish is an indulgent treat, it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. A serving contains approximately:

Calories: 450
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g

This nutritional breakdown ensures you are enjoying a well-rounded meal without compromising flavor or satisfaction.

Storing Tips & Variations for Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

If you find yourself with leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container. When reheating, a combination of microwave and stovetop will help preserve texture. If you want to make a more substantial batch, consider freezing the dish in portions for up to 2 months. Enjoy it with different varieties of ravioli, such as spinach and ricotta, for a twist or substitute the asparagus with vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variations.

Conclusion for Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

There’s no reason to hesitate; you’ve got a delightful, easy-to-follow recipe at your fingertips. Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs is perfect for any occasion and promises to become a beloved addition to your culinary repertoire. Gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones today!

FAQs

Can I use frozen ravioli?
- Yes, frozen ravioli can be used; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
What if I can’t find fresh herbs?
- Dried herbs can be a great substitute; just use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
- Absolutely! You can find gluten-free ravioli at many grocery stores or use gluten-free pasta in its place.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
- While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetable mixture ahead of time and toss it with the ravioli right before serving.
How do I make this dish vegan?
- You can use plant-based ravioli, substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, and omit the parmesan or replace it with a vegan cheese alternative.

Dive into this irresistible recipe and enjoy every moment of the cooking process!

Ravioli with Tomatoes, Asparagus, Garlic, and Herbs

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant dish featuring tender ravioli tossed with cherry tomatoes, crisp asparagus, and a light garlic and herb sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Cook the ravioli: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the refrigerated four-cheese ravioli according to package instructions, typically about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the asparagus: While the ravioli cooks, heat olive oil and melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped asparagus and sauté for about 4 minutes, or until it becomes tender and vibrant in color.
Add tomatoes and garlic: Incorporate halved grape tomatoes and minced garlic (approximately 1 tablespoon) into the skillet. Sauté for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic fragrance while the tomatoes soften slightly. Drizzle in the balsamic vinegar at this stage.
Combine ingredients: In a large serving bowl, gently pour in the cooked ravioli. Add the sautéed asparagus mixture along with chopped and toasted walnuts, fresh basil, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, then toss everything together to combine.
Finish and serve: Finally, sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. Enjoy your warm, vibrant ravioli immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.